South Australian police launch lawsuit against former psychologist

October 10, 2017

The South Australian Police (SAPOL) is suing Douglas Robert Knuckey, who was the chief psychologist for SAPOL for more than 30 years, for more than $100,000 in workers compensation payments it paid to a policewoman he had a sexual relationship with.

The policewoman was referred to him for counselling over personal issues with her sons and former husband, and Knuckey used his therapeutic relationship with her to enter in to a sexual relationship.

Following the relationship with Knuckey, she lodged a workers compensation claim after ceasing work, claiming mental injury as a result of her interactions with Knuckey. The claim was accepted and SAPOL has paid income maintenace, medical and travel expenses.

Last year, the Heatlh Practitioners Tribunal revoked his medical license after finding that his relationship with the policewoman had put her two children at risk of harm. They found him guilty of professional misconduct.